Standing together to take on prostate cancer: meet the cast and crew of our new film

When you find it early, prostate cancer is much easier to treat. But right now, there are still far too many men who are diagnosed when it’s already too late for a cure. It shouldn’t be this way.  

Thanks to your support, we’re making huge progress to transform the way we diagnose and treat prostate cancer. And every pound you’ve donated, every petition you’ve signed, every lifesaving conversation you’ve had with your dad, brother, grandad or mates, is helping us move closer to a world where no man dies of this disease. 

Together, we’re taking on prostate cancer. And that’s what our new film, The Unexpected Hero, is all about.  

No man should have to face the disease by himself. So we’re urging people across the UK to stand with us against the most common cancer in men - and driving public support on a bigger scale than ever before. 

The film was created by a team of people, many of whom have been affected by prostate cancer themselves, and features a special voiceover from actor David Tennant.  

Watch the video to go behind the scenes with the cast and crew. 

Taking on the most common cancer in men

In the UK today, 1 in 8 men will get prostate cancer. And if you’re Black or have a family history of the disease, your risk is even higher. In fact, prostate cancer is now diagnosed more often than any other cancer in England. 

Prostate cancer has touched millions of lives, affecting not only men but their family members, friends and loves ones too.  

And among them are several members of the cast and crew who helped us create the film. From those who featured in front of the camera to the team behind the scenes who made it happen, many of them had their own personal prostate cancer experiences and stories to share. 

One of those people is Michael Lewis. When he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020, he had no symptoms. In fact, he’d only asked his GP for a PSA blood test when another member of his local church community came forward to share the news of his own diagnosis. 

In that moment, Michael’s decision to take action saved his life. Because he found his prostate cancer early, it could be safely monitored – initially without treatment. And when last year doctors spotted signs that his PSA levels were rising, there was still time for Michael to choose the right treatment path for him. He decided to have surgery to remove his prostate and today he’s living without cancer. 

Finding prostate cancer early shouldn’t be left to chance

Michael, who appears in The Unexpected Hero, jumped at the chance to take part in our film. He believes that by sharing his story and raising awareness, he can help save more lives.

“Personal stories like mine are vital. They break down stigma. They educate. They give hope. They show others they aren’t alone, no matter how frightening a diagnosis may seem.” 

Finding prostate cancer shouldn’t be left to chance or a passing conversation, says Michael. And that's why we need family, friends and loved ones to stand together with us against prostate cancer. 

“We need partners, daughters, sons, brothers, sisters, mothers and friends to encourage the men in their lives to take their health seriously – to make an appointment, to not ignore symptoms,” says Michael.  

“For men, no one should assume they’re ‘too young’ or ‘too healthy’ to be at risk. We must feel confident to speak up about our health, without fear, embarrassment or stigma.” 

Where can I watch Prostate Cancer UK’s latest film?

You might have seen Michael appear in our film on TV, or heard it as an advert on the radio. It’s all part of our campaign, encouraging people across the UK to join us and take on prostate cancer together. 

You can watch the film below. 

WATCH THE UNEXPECTED HERO